5 Recommended Souvenirs to Buy in Fukuoka

Fukuoka, a vibrant city in Kyushu, Japan, is renowned for its rich culinary culture and unique local products. When visiting Fukuoka, selecting the right souvenirs can be a delightful way to share the city's flavors and traditions with friends and family.

1. Fukusaya Castella

Fukusaya Castella is a timeless souvenir that combines tradition with deliciousness. Founded in 1624, Fukusaya specializes in castella sponge cake, which is available at the Hakata Daimaru Airport Shop inside Fukuoka Airport. This cake is split into ten pieces, making it perfect for sharing. Each piece features a crunchy texture of sugar crystals at the bottom, adding a delightful twist to the classic sponge cake. The cake's availability at the airport ensures that you can pick it up just before your departure.

2. Menbei (Fukutaro)

Menbei is a staple Fukuoka souvenir that showcases the city's love for mentaiko (spicy cod roe). Produced by Yamaguchi Aburaya Fukutaro, Menbei is a senbei (Japanese rice cracker) infused with mentaiko, squid, and octopus. These crackers come in various flavors, including plain, green onion, mayonnaise, and spicy, making them versatile and appealing to different tastes. Menbei can be found at kiosks and souvenir corners in Hakata Station and Fukuoka Airport, and they are known for their perfect balance of spiciness and seafood flavor.

3. Hakata no Gyoretsu ga Dekiru Meiten Set

For ramen enthusiasts, the Hakata no Gyoretsu ga Dekiru Meiten Set is an ideal souvenir. This set includes three packs of ramen from three famous Fukuoka ramen restaurants: Aka Noren, Najima Tei, and Nagahama Number One. Available at the souvenir shop Solae inside Fukuoka Airport, this set allows you to enjoy authentic tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen at home. It's a great way to relive the culinary experience of Fukuoka's traditional yatai food stalls.

4. Tirolian (Chidoriya Honke)

Tirolian is a beloved Fukuoka confectionery that has been a favorite for over 40 years. Produced by Chidoriya Honke, Tirolian consists of a cylindrically baked roll cake filled with coffee, vanilla, strawberry, or matcha cream. The combination of the fragrant baked roll and the creamy filling makes for a delightful snack. Available in various sizes, including the Tirolian Big Bag and the Tirolian Maru #1 Can, this treat can be easily found at Hakata Station and in Aeon supermarkets around Fukuoka.

5. Jagariko Mentaiko Flavor

For those who enjoy spicy snacks, the Jagariko Mentaiko Flavor is a must-buy. This fried potato snack is an exclusive flavor to Kyushu, combining the crunchy texture of Jagariko with the spicy mentaiko flavor. Available at Fukuoka Airport's Solae Gate 4, this snack is perfect for those who want to experience the unique flavors of Fukuoka on the go.

Additional Tips for Shopping

• Shopping Locations: Many of these souvenirs can be found at convenient locations such as Hakata Station and Fukuoka Airport. These areas are lined with specialty souvenir shops, making it easy to find the perfect souvenirs before departing.
• Variety of Flavors: When choosing souvenirs like Menbei and Tirolian, consider the variety of flavors available. This allows you to select items that cater to different tastes and preferences.
• Packaging and Portability: Opt for souvenirs that are well-packaged and easy to carry, such as the Fukusaya Castella and Jagariko Mentaiko Flavor. These are designed to be shared or enjoyed on the go.